Mantas, sharks, coral gardens, and overwater-lagoon logistics in the Pearl of the Pacific
Updated Apr 20, 2026 • 29 sources
Top species linked to approved dive spots in Bora Bora.
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Last updated: April 20, 2026 • 29 sources
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Overview
Bora Bora is the Society Islands' most polished lagoon destination: easy resort transfers, boat-based dive sites, iconic manta ray encounters, and calm coral gardens that work for mixed scuba, snorkel, freedive, and non-diver groups. The signature underwater rhythm is one lagoon dive for rays, one outer reef or pass dive for sharks, then an afternoon of Matira Beach, a motu lunch, or a spa. It is not a liveaboard destination. Plan it as a land-based stay with local day boats from Vaitape, Matira, or resort docks. The sheltered lagoon is friendly for beginners, but Teavanui Pass, Tapu, and Muri Muri still need current awareness, boat support, and conservative dive profiles because the hyperbaric chamber is in Papeete, not on Bora Bora.
Anau is a classic reef manta cleaning station where divers and snorkel-capable wildlife lovers come for calm, respectful observation in the eastern lagoon.
Most lagoon dives sit in warm, clear water with boat support, short transfers, and dive centers that cater to first dives, Open Water divers, photographers, and luxury resort guests.
Bora Bora's mix of lagoon, pass, and outer reef sites brings manta rays, spotted eagle rays, blacktip reef sharks, lemon sharks, turtles, humphead wrasse, and schooling jacks.
Non-divers can join snorkel safaris, motu lunches, Matira Beach days, Mount Otemanu viewpoints, WWII heritage tours, spa circuits, and sunset cruises without feeling like side guests.
3 linked spots
Best time to go
May to October
Drier weather, lower humidity, strong lagoon color, water around 27°C to 28°C, and easier activity planning.
Main caution: Warmer wet season, water near 29°C, higher humidity, heavier showers, and cycloneseason monitoring.
